Groups spar over transgender bathrooms in Massachusetts

BOSTON -- The debate over transgender bathrooms is heating up in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition supports legislation that would add "gender identity and expression" to the state's anti-discrimination laws. The bill has more than 100 legislative co-sponsors.

But a coalition opposing the measure is having a news conference Wednesday focusing on a provision allowing any man who self-identifies as a women access to women's restrooms, locker rooms, emergency shelters and fitness clubs.

A similar transgender rights proposal recently was defeated in New Hampshire over the bathroom issue. It may be reconsidered.